336 THE ELEPHANT. 



dividual, we shall find its powers still more ex- 

 traordinary. With a very awkward appearance, 

 it possesses all the senses in great perfection, 

 and is capable of applying them to more useful 

 purposes than any other quadruped. The ele- 

 phant, as we observed, has very small eyes when 

 compared to the enormous bulk of its body. But 

 though their minuteness may at first sight appear 

 deformed, yet, when we come to examine them, 

 they are seen to exhibit a variety of expression, 

 and to discover the various sensations with which 

 it is moved. It turns them with attention and 

 friendship to its master ; it seems to reflect and 

 deliberate ; and as its passions slowly succeed 

 each other, their various workings are distinctly 

 seen. 



The elephant is not less remarkable for the 

 excellence of its hearing. Its ears are extremely 

 large, and greater in proportion than even those 

 of an ass. They are usually dependent ; but it 

 can readily raise and move them. They serve 

 also to wipe its eyes, and to protect them against 

 the dust and flies that might otherwise incom- 

 mode them. It appears delighted with music, 

 and very readily learns to beat time, to move in 

 measure, and even to join its voice to the sound 

 of the drum and the trumpet. 



This animal's sense of smelling is not only 

 exquisite, but it is in a great measure pleased 

 with the same odours that delight mankind. The 

 elephant gathers flowers with great pleasure and 

 attention; it picks them up one by one^ unites 

 them into a nosegay, and seems charmed with 



